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Monthly Archives: January 2017

This is a 55-year-old female who presented for revisional breast surgery. She underwent bilateral silicone breast implants in 1975. She developed bilateral ruptures of both implants and severe capsular contractures. She underwent removal of silicone material with subpectoral placement of 300 cc, Mentor silicone- gel breast implants. Her procedure was performed at Marin Cosmetic Surgery Center in Marin County, California.

“Silent Rupture” of a Silicone Breast Implant

When breast implants are placed in the body, a fibrous capsule will form around the implant. If a rupture should occur, the silicone will most likely be contained in the capsule; and it is possible that it may not be painful or be noticeable. This is referred to as a “silent rupture.” If a silent rupture is suspected, your plastic surgeon will most likely recommend an MRI to confirm.

However, sometimes a ruptured implant may cause pain; swelling and the breast may change shape, and size. You may experience lumps and the affected breast may feel hard. It is not believed that silicone implants can cause breast cancer or reproductive problems. It is also not proven that implants will cause a connective tissue disease as once thought.

See Your Plastic Surgeon

Women who suspect that their implant(s) has ruptured or if their implants have formed a capsular contracture are advised to seek a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who will be able to explain what options are available to them.

With a “silent rupture,” some women may choose not to have them removed unless they have a complication. However, some women will want their implants removed. If the implants are to be removed, new ones can be replaced at the same time, or some women may not want implants anymore and opt for a breast lift, or perhaps fat transfers instead of implants.

Is an MRI Necessary?

The FDA recommends that women have an MRI 3 years after their original breast augmentation surgery, and then every two years thereafter. However, this is a recommendation, not a requirement. Your surgeon will be able to advise you best .

Call Today!

Dr. Miguel Delgado, M.D. has been performing breast revision surgery since 1989 and has helped hundreds of women make educated choices. Call now (415) 898-4161 for your breast revision concerns.